4-(omega-aminoalkyl)-3, 3-disubstitutedn-hydrocarbon-2-pyrrolidinones and corresponding-2-thionpyrrolidinones



United States Patent 4-(OMEGA AMINOALKYL)-3,3 DISUBSTITUTED- N-HYDROCARBON 2 PYRROLIDINONES AND CORRESPONDING 2 THIONPYRROLIDIN ONES Carl D. Lunsford, Richmond, and Albert D. Cale, Jr., Bon Air, Va., assignors to A. H. Robins Company, Inc, Richmond, Va., a corporation of Virginia No Drawing. Original application Dec. 4, 1961, Ser. No. 156,945. Divided and this application Nov. 13, 1962, Ser. No. 237,283

30 Claims. (Cl. 260-243) The present application is a division of our prior-filed copending application Serial No. 156,945, filed December 4, 1961, which in turn is a continuation-in-part of our prior-filed co-pending application Serial No. 88,036, filed February 9, 1961.

wherein: A is lower-alkyl, cycloalkyl, monocarbocyclic aryl, or monocarbocyclic aralkyl; R is lower-alkyl, loweralkenyl, cycloalkyl, monocarbocyclic aryl, monocarbocyclic aralkyl, pyridyl, thienyl, or thenyl; R" is loweralkyl, lower-alkenyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, or monocarbocyclic aralkyl; R" is hydrogen or methyl, a maximum or one R" being other than hydrogen; n is zero or one; B is halogen, hydroxy, mercapto, lower-alkylrnercapto, lower-alkoxy, phenoxy, benzyloxy, benzoyloxy, hydroxybenzoyloxy, nicotinoyloxy, loWer-alkanoyloxy, cyano, carboxy, carbonyl halide, carb-lower alkoxy, carbamyl, lower-alkanoyl, -N-(lower-alkanoyl)-amino, phthalimido, and amino; and E is oxygen or sulfur.

The compounds of the invention having the foregoing Formula X are generally characterized by important pharmacological activity, indicative of their use in counteracting certain physiological abnormalities in an animal body. The compounds are analeptics, hypotensives, or both. Certain compounds of the series are extremely potent and long acting analeptics, stimulating respiration and antagonizing central nervous system depression and exhibiting a particularly durable antagonism against barbiturate-induced depression or poisoning at dose levels considerably below that at which untoward side effects appear. The morpholino compounds are especially potent analeptics. Some other compounds of the series are preferred as hypotensives, particularly those amino compounds wherein the amino group is dialkylamino, especially dimethylamino, piperidino, and pyrrolidino. In addition, as will be apparent and become more obvious hereinafter, some compounds, though active in themselves, are also valuable as intermediates in preparing other and still more active compounds of Formula X, e.g., the omega-haloalkyl compounds. Those compounds having a reactive functional group in the side-chain are of course useful, as shown herein, as reactants in standard-type reactions characteristic of the functional group contained therein. While the degree and relative degree of their activities varies, all compounds tested exhibited 'analeptic activity although, as stated, because of the relative degree of analeptic vs. hypotensive activity, some are preferred as hypotensives. The amine quaternary ammonium salts tested, in addition to being respiratory stimulants, evidence ganglionic blocking activity.

It is accordingly an object of this invention to provide novel and useful 4-(ornega-substituted alkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones and -2-thionpyrro1idinones, processes for their production, intermediate products useful in their preparation, and processes for preparing such intermediateswhich in themselves have useful pharmacological activity; Other objects of the invention will be apparent to one skilled in the art, and still other objects will become apparent hereinafter.

In the definitions of symbols in foregoing Formula X and where they appear elsewhere throughout-this specification, the terms have the following significance.

By monocarbocyclic aryl radical is meant an aryl radical of the benzene series, having six ring carbon atoms, and this term includes the unsubstituted phenyl radical and phenyl radicals substituted by any radical or radicals which are not reactive or otherwise interfering under conditions of the reaction, such as nitro, lowera1koxy,-lower-alkylmercapto, loWer-alkyl, halo, and the like. The substituted-phenyl radicals have preferably no more than one to three substituents'such as those given above and, furthermore, these substituents can be in various available positions of the phenyl nucleus and, where more than one substituent is present, can be the same or different and can be in various position combinations relative to each other. The lower-alkyl, loweralkoxy, and lower-alkylrnercapto substituents each have preferably from one to three carbon atoms which can be arranged as straight or branched chains.

Among the suitable amino radicals included within the symbol B are primary, secondary, and tertiary amino radicals, such as unsubstituted amino (-NH (loweralkyl) -amino; di- (loWer-alkyl) -amino; (loWer-alkenyl amino; di-(lower-alkenyl)-amino; phenylamino; (hydroxy-lower-alkyl)-amino; di (hydroxy lower alkyl)- amino; basic saturated monocyclic heterocyclic radicals of less than twelve carbon atoms, as exemplified by piperidino; (lower-alkyl)-piperidino, e.g., 2-, 3-, or 4-(lower-alkyDpiperidino; di-(lower alkyl)-piperidino, e.g., 2,4, 2,6-, or 3,5-di-(lower-allcyl)-piperidino; (loweralkoxy) -piperidino; pyrrolidino; (lower-alkyl)-pyrro1idino; di-(lower-alkyl)-pyrrolidino; (lower-alkoxy)-pyrrolidino; morpholino; (lower-alkyl)-morpho1ino; di-(lower-alkyD- CHART I.PREPARATION OF STARTING ACETONITRILES (IV) I NaNH; A-omoN A-CHON r) I (n NaNH,

R I! RF 01 RI! RII t, CN B (III) li RI! N The alpha-( 1-substituted-B-pyrrolidyl) -alpha, alphadisubstituted- (e.g., dimethyl or diphenyl) acetonitriles (IV) are generally prepared by alkylating the alkali metal, e.g., sodium, salt of the appropriate alpha, alpha-disubstituted-acetonitrile (H), e.g., dimethylacetonitrile or diphenylacetonitrile, with the appropriate 1-substituted-3- halo (e.g., chloro)-pyrrolidine in a suitable solvent such as dry toluene. The sodium salt of the alpha, alpha-disubstituted-acetonitrile (II) is formed by reaction of the nitrile with sodium amide in the dry solvent, e.g., toluene. The condensation with the 3-chloro-pyrrolidine (III) is usually carriedout with the application of heat, e.g., in refluxing benzene, toluene, or like solvent, for an extended period, e.g., approximately three hours. The solvent, e.g., toluene, solution is then washed with water and the product extracted, as with one normal hydrochloric acid. This acid extract may then be basified with sodium hydroxide, extracted with a water-insoluble solvent such as ether or chloroform, the solution washed and dried, as over sodium sulfate, concentrated, and the residue distilled in vacuo. In most cases, the product crystallizes on standing and may be recrystallized from an appropriate solvent or solvents. The following preparation illustrates this method in which, if desired, the radical R may alternatively by introduced into the acetonitrile molecule after the pyrrolidyl radical,

rather than before the pyrrolidyl radical, which sequence was indicated inthe foregoing.

' The following preparations and examples are given by way of illustration only and are in no event to be construed as limiting. The temperatures given are in a degrees centigrade, unless indicated to the contrary.

PREPARATION 1 a (1-is0butyl-3-pyrr0lidyl)-a,o;-diphenylacetonitrile.-- A suspension of the sodium salt of diphenylacetonitrile was formed by the dropwise addition at 50 of 193 g. (1.0 mole) of diphenylacetonitrile to a stirred suspension of 43 g. (1.1 moles) of sodium amide in one liter of dry toluene. After additionwas complete, the mixture was refluxed for four hours and then, to the refluxing mixture, 162 g. (1.0 mole) of l-isobntyl-3-ehloropyrrolidine Was added at a rapid dropwise rate' with continuous stirring. After addition was complete, stirring and refluxing were continued for three hours. The mixture was then cooled and extracted with one normal hydrochloric acid. The aqueous layer together with an oil layer were separated, made basic with dilute sodium hydroxide, and extracted with ether. The ethereal solution was dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated and the residue was distilled in vacuo. Yield 250 g. (78%); B.P. 190-200/0.15 mm.

In the same manner, starting from the appropriate 1 substituted-3-chloropyrrolidine (III) and the selected alpha, alpha-disubstituted-acetonitrile (II), in turn produced by reaction of the selected alpha-substituted-acetonitrile (I) and the chloride or bromide of the other substituent R desired to be introducedinto the alpha position, or by introducing the pyrrolidyl substituent (III) before the second alpha substituent, various other alpha-(l-substituted 3-pyrrolidyl)-alpha, alpha-disubstituted-acetonitriles are prepared. Other compounds within the scope of Formula IV which are prepared according to the manner of foregoing Preparation 1 are as follows:

u-( l-isopropyl-3 pyrrolidyl) -a-allyl-a-phenylacetonitrile,

al-phenyl-3 -pyrrolidyl -a,u-dimethylacetonitrile,

a( 1-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidyl) -a-benzyl-a-phenylacetonitrile,

u,a#bis-( 1-isopropyl-3 -pyrrolidyl) -a-phenylacetonitrile,

x-( 1-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidyl) -a (2- or 3-thienyl) -a-phenylacetonitrile,

oc-( l-is opropyl-3 -pyrrolidyl) -oc- (2- or 3 -thenyl -a-phenyl acetonitrile,

a-( l-is opropyl-3 -pyrrolidyl) -a- (p-methoxyphenyl) -11- phenylacetonitrile,

u-( 1-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidyl) -a- (m-chlorophenyl) -uphenylacetonitrile,

oz-( 1-isopropyl-3 pyrrolidyl) -a- (o-methylphenyl) -aphenylacetonitrile,

a-( l-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidyl) -a-methyl-e-cyclopentylacetonitrile,

oc-( l-isopropyl-S-methyl-3-pyrrolidyl) -tX,Ot-(llph6IlY1- acetonitrile,

a-( l-isopropyl-4-methyl-3-pyrrolidyl -u,a-diphenyl acetonitrile,

oc( l-isbpropyl-S -rnethyl-3-pyrrolidyl) -u,a-diphenylacetonitrile,

oc-( l-isopropyl-2-methyl-3 -pyrr0lidy1) -a,a-dipheny1- acetonitrile,

04- l-methyl-3 pyrrolidyl -a-phenyl-u- (2-piperidyl) acetonitrile, and

oc-( 1-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidyl) a-phenyl-u- [4- (N-methylpiperidyl) ]-acetonitrile,

respectively prepared as indicated in the foregoing by the reaction of a-AIIyLu-phenyIacetonitrile with 3-chloro-1-isopropylpyra(m-Chlorophenyl)-u-pheny1acetonitrile with 3-chl0ro-1- The material crystallized from a 4:1 ethanol-water mixisopropylpyrrolidine;

u-(o-Methylphenyl)- x-phenylacetonitrile with 3-chloro-1- isopropylpyrrolidine;

a-Methyl-a-cyclopentylacetonitrile with 3-chloro-1- isopropylpyrrolidine;

a,a-Diphenylacetonitrile With 3-chloro-1-isopropyl-5- methylpyrrolidine;

a,a-Diphenylacetonitrile with 3-chloro-1-isopropyl-4- methylpyrrolidine;

a,a-Diphenylacetonitrile with 3-chloro-l-isopropyl-3- methylpyrrolidine;

a,a-Diphenylacetonitrile with 3-chloro-1-isopropyl-2- methylpyrrolidine;

7 oi-Phenyl-m-(2-pyridyl)-acet0nitrile with 3-chl0ro-1-methylpyrrolidine and subsequent catalytic reduction of the pyridine nucleus; and u-Phenyl-a- [4-(N-methy1piperidyl) ]-acetonitrile with 3- chloro-l-isopropylpyrrolidine.

The physical constants of some representative u-(1-substituted-3-pyrrolidyl)-a,a-disubstituted-acetonitriles within the scope of Formula IV are shown in Table I.

In this Table I, the compounds characterized, in the order of the table, were prepared from the following reactants:

(1) Diphenylacetonitrile and 3-chloro-1-methyl pyrrolidine (2) Diphenylacetonitrile and 3-chloro-1-ethyl pyrrolidine (3) Diphenylacetouitrile and 3-chloro-1-isopropyl pyrrolidine (4) Diphenylacetonitrile and 3-chloro-1-isobutyl pyrrolidine (5) Diphenylacetonitrile and 3-chloro-1-cycl-ohexy1pyrrolidine (6) Diphenylacetonitrile and 3-chloro-1-benzy1 pyrrolidine (7) a-(2-pyridyl)-a-phenylacetonitrile and 3-chloro-benzyl pyrrolidine (8) a-(Z-pyridyl)-a-phenylacetonitrile and 3-cl1loro-l-isobutyl pyrrolidine 8 (9) u-(2-pyridyl)-u-phenylacetonitrile and 3-chloro-1-cyclohexyl pyrrolidine (10) a-(2-pyridyl)-a-phenylacetonitrile and 3-chloro-1- n-butyl pyrrolidine 5 1 1 a- (Z-pyridyl) -a-phenylacetonitrile and 3 -chloro-1- Table l REPRESENTATIVE a-(l-SUBSTITUTED-Zi-PYRROLIDYL)-a,m-D1SUBSTIT UTED- AOE'IONITRILES 1 R" A r l R" -CIIGN RI! R!) R Analysis A R R 13. Kim. (M.P.), C. C H N Calcd. Calcd. Calcd. Found Found Found CflHfi CH; 00H; (81-82) 82. 57 7. 29 10. 14 82. 82 7. 9. 72 01H. (.11. cm. (83-84) 82. 72 7. 64 9. 65 82. 83 7. 78 9. 47 CAR! LCJL CAT'TK (73-74) 82. 7. 9. 20 82. 88 7. 89 9. 05 01H. l-CA'FTQ CAP: (76-77) 82. 97 8. 23 8.80 I 83.21 8. 12 8. 62 0 H; cy-Cufi n 01H 195200I0.005 83. 67 8. 19 8. 13 83. 23 8. 33 7. 78 0 H; CuH OHg- C0115 215-218/0- 01 I 85. 19 6. 86 7. 95 84. 93 6. 93 7. 75 0011 0515 01511---- 2002l0/0.08 81. 55 6. 56 81. 69 6. 77 C 11; i-C;Hu 16 -/0.07 78. 9G 7. 89 79. 00 7. 68 C ilscy-O E do ZOO-208] M 79. 96 7. 88 80. 16 8.06 CqHfln-C F -175/0.08 78. 96 7.89 78. 87 8. 06 0 H i-C3H7 do (107-109) 78. 65 7. 69 78. 88 7. 81 05115... G f1!) (110119) 78. 31 7. 26 78. 53 7. 20 0 3 CH5 "do 148-151/0.07 77. 94 6. 91 78. 21 7. 05 p-CHaO C H4 CH3 "do 170-173/0.08 74. 24 6. 89 74. 27 6. 91 11-01130 C H4 C FT: (1n 200-202/0.08 74. 73 7. 22 74. 69 7. 14 p-CHBO C 154-.." i-CaH do /0 M 75. 19 7. 51

75 05 7. 39 00H. CRE i-CzHv 121130/0.15-0.20 79. 64 9. 44 10. 93 79. 86 9. 65 10. 74 0 H; i-OaH1 i-CaH1 12L-125/0.002 79. 95 9. 69 10. 36 80. 11 9. 61 10. 27 e 5--- 00H; 147-149/0.005 81. 03 9. 52 9. 45 81. 53 9. 28 9. 58 C611, 169-175/0.001 81. 24 9. 74 9.02 81. 27 9. 71 8. 94

1 See foregoing discussion for starting materials; R" equals 11. 3 Compound made but not characterized.

10 rearrangement will be seen from the following outline (Chart 3) in which all atoms are shown.

In this Chart 3, when no extraneous Q- ion is present while the mixed anhydride (VII A) is in the form of its equilibrium intermediate (VIII), then Y is the only CHART 2.- PREPARATION OF 4-(OMEGA-SUBSTI- TUTED ALKY'L) 3,S-DISUBSTITUTED-l-SUBSTI- TUTED-2-PYRROLIDINONES coon R hydrolysis p tial hydrolysis N r l C hydrTflysis v -t L R acid anhydridg plus RI halogen ion X (e.g.

halide or phosphorustri-halide) (V) OK I R" \I A H R" H 7 l s R u L (VII) Aifiixed anhydridg A ClIR"Clht"-X 4? (X= halogen) (124) R a i ra 'czw-q during the rearrangement of (VII) to a Z-pyrrolidinone but, alternatively, that a different negative ion or radical Q, entering from outside the reaction or released from within, may be introduced into the omega position during thionyl acid anhydride plusqanion (Q is different than X) anion in the reaction and emerges as the omega alkyl substituent Q in the product, as in (IX) or (X). However, when an excess of Q- is a component of the reaction mixture at equilibrium intermediate form (VIII), this ion Q- replaces Y in the final product, appearing as the omega-alkyl Q substituent.

Examples are included herein of representative Y- anions in the absence of Q anions, e.g., halo, such as C1 or Br, lower-aliphatic acyloxy, e.g., acetyloxy, and where Y and Q are different anions, for example, diflierent halogens, dilferent lower-aliphatic acyloxy groups, one a halogen and the other an acyloxy group, and the like. It is in this manner possible to directly the rearrangement reaction. The apparent course of the 75 introduce iodine, for example, as the omega-alkyl sub- I I stituent by introduction of sodium iodide into the rearrangement reaction of the mixed anhydride (VII A), where Y is acetyloxy, thus producing a compound of Formula IX in which Q is iodine.

That the mechanism is one which occurs at the equilibrium stage [compound (VIII)] is clearly indicated, for example, by the fact that NaI is not effective under the conditions of reaction to replace an established omega-acetyloxy radical. Where the anion is introduced from outside the reaction, the reaction-is facilitated by use of a suitable solvent for the anion, such as methyl ethyl ketone when an alkali metal iodide is employed.

(IV) by hydrolysis, or it may be prepared by hydrolysis of the intermediate amide (V) which in turn may be prepared from the acetonitrile (IV) by a partial hydrolysis. The, 4-haloalkyl compound (IX) is convertible to numerous other omega-substituted alkyl products (X), including those of increased side-chain length, as more fully disclosed hereinafter.

The 1,3,3,4-tetra-substituted-Z-pyrrolidinones of the present invention are in general prepared by the reactions outlined in Chart 2 of this specification. Presented in the following are general descriptions and specific examples which more fully illustrate the. experimental details.

CHART 3..OUTLINE OF REARRANGEMENT REACTION COURSE In compound:

(IX) Q=halogen (X) Q=other than halogen Y-=anion Q =anion, same as or different than Y. The 4-haloalkyl compounds (IX) are generally prepared by the rearrangement of the acid (VI) via the mixed anhydride, in this case the acid halide (VII). The

In preparing the 4-haloalkyl compounds (IX) from the a-(l substituted-3-pyrrolidy1)-u,a-disubstituted acetonitriles (IV), the nitrile is first hydrolyzed to the corresponding acid (VI) by the action of a strong mineral acid, e.g., concentrated sulfuric acid, for example, approximately 60-80%, preferably 70%, aqueous sulfuric acid, or concentrated (e.g., near 35%) hydrochloric acid. Usually this hydrolysis is readily eifected by heating at a relatively high temperature, e.g. 100-140, preferably acid (VI) may be prepared directly from the acetonitrile 75 130-140, degrees centigrade for an extended period, e.g

7 organic solvent.

. 13 from five to 48 hours. Lower temperatures increase the required reaction period, higher temperatures may shorten it somewhat but are not recommended since decarboxylation may occur from excessive reaction temperatures or periods. and the incidence of undesired side-reactions, e.g., sulfonation, is thereby also increased. Upon completion of the hydrolysis, the solution of the acid (VI) may be cooled, as by pouring onto ice, and basified with an alkali, e.g.,'sodium or potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide,'or the like, and extracted with an appropriate Halogenated organic solvents such as chloroform, ethylene dichloride, and the like are preferred. The resulting solution of the basic salt is then acidified, as with an anhydrous mineral acid, preferably by passing anhydrous hydrogen chloride gas into the solution, the solution of the resulting acid salt dried with a conventional drying agent such as sodium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, calcium chloride, or the like, and finally concentrated, to leave the crude salt of the acid (Vi), which may, if desired, be recrystallized from conventional solvents, or isolated after neutralization as the free amino acid. Alternatively, the residual acid salt may be con verted without isolation to the corresponding mixed anhydride, i.e., the acyl halide, and then rearranged to the 4-(omega-haloalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinone. In such case, the residual acid salt is usually heated, preferably under reflux, with an acid anhydride capable of forming a mixed anhydride therewith, together with a halogen ion (which halogen ion may either be added to the reaction or generated in situ), for example, with thionyl chloride, phosphorus trichloride, corresponding bromides such as phosphorus tribromide and thionylbromide, acetic anhydride plus sodium iodide, or the like, until complete disappearance of the characteristic acyl halide carbonyl frequency from the infrared spectrum, usually for a period of two to three hours, during which reaction the acid (VI) first converts to the acid halide (VII) or other mixed anhydride (such as VIIA where Y equals acyloxy), and then rearranges to the 4-halo-alkyl-2-pyrrolidinone (IX). Halides of strong acids are preferred, and temperatures .up to about 100 degrees are usually employed.

The acyl halides (VII) or other mixed anhydrides (VII A) are unstable even at room temperature and rearrange readily upon heating. It is therefore most convenient to continue heating of the reaction product containing the same, in the presence of the selected halide ion, without making any attempt at isolation, until establishment of the characteristic pyrrolidinone carbonyl frequency, indicative of completion of the preparation of the desired 4-haloalkyl2-pyrrolidinone via the rearrangement mechanism.

When the acid anhydride is used as solvent as well as a reactant, a considerable excess may be and frequently is employed, although when the anhydride is acetic or other lower-aliphatic, preferably lower-alkanoic, acid anhydride, as in cases when a halogen anion is extraneously introduced into the reaction mixture, a polar solvent such as methyl ethyl ketone may be used to facilitate solution of the anion introduced. After completion of the reaction, any excess reagent may be removed from the organic. product under vacuum and the residue crystallized from an appropriate solvent or solvent mixture. The crystallized product from this reac tion sequence is the desired 4-omega-haloalkyl-1,3,3-tri substituted-2-pyrrolidinone.

The following specific examples illustrate the foregoing method and procedure:

Example 1 .4-(B-chl0r0ethyl) -3,3-diphenyl-1- isobutyl-Z-pyrrolidinone A solution of 100 grams (0.314 mole) of o or-diphenyla-(1-isobutyl-3-pyrrolidyl)-acetonitrile in 500 grams of extracted with chloroform. The chloroform solution was acidified with hydrogen chloride gas, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated. The residue was refiuxed in 500 milliliters of thionyl chloride for three hours; the resulting solution was concentrated in vacuo; and the residue was crystallized from isopropyl ether. Yield 69 grams (62%); M.P. 113-113.5.

l benzyl 4 (,8 chloroethyl 3,3 diphenyl 2- pyrrolidinone, 4 (,B chloroethyl) 3,3 diphenyl 1-- methyl 2 pyrrolidinone, 4 3 chloroethyl) 1- cyclohexyl 3,3 diphenyl 2 pyrrolidinone, 4 (flchloroethyl) 3,3 diphenyl 1 ethyl 2 pyrrolidinone, 4 (,8 chloroethyl) 3,3 diphenyl 1 isopropyl 2- pyrrolidinone, and 4 (2 chloroethyl) 1 isopropyl- 3-methyl-3-phenyl-2-pyrrolidinone are respectively prepared in the manner of this example from u-(1-benzyl-3 pyrrolidyl) oc,ot diphenylacetonitrile, a (1 methyl- 3 pyrrolidyl) a, diphenylacetonitrile, a (1 cyclohexyl 3 pyrrolidyl) 0:,05 diphenylacetonitrile, a (1- ethyl 3 pyrrolidyl) a diphenylacetonitrile, a (1- isopropyl 3 pyrrolidyl) on, diphenylacetonitrile, and u (1 isopropyl -3 pyrrolidyl) 0c methyl 0cphenylacetonitrile.

The 4-bromoalky1 compounds were prepared in the same manner as the 4-chloroalkyl compounds with the exception that thionyl bromide or phosphorus tribromide was used as the halogenating agent. The following illustrates the preparation of the 4-bromoalkyl compounds.

Example 2. a (1 ethyl 3 pyrrolidyl) egos diphenylrzcetic acid and 4-.(,8-br0methyl) -3,3-diphenyl- I-ethyl-Z-pyrrolidinone A solution of 365 g. (1.26 mole) of a-(1-ethy1-3-pyrrolidyl)-a,oc-diphenylacetonitrile in 1500 g. of 70% sulfuric acid was heated at 130 for 48 hours. The acid solution was poured onto ice and made basic with sodium hydroxide. The resulting mixture was extracted with chloroform and the chloroform layer together with an oil layer which formed were acidified with dry hydrogen chloride. A small amount of water was separated andthe resulting chloroform solution was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated leaving crude o: (1 ethyl 3 pyrrolidyl) (1,04 diphenylacetic acid hydrochloride.

Portions of this crude acid were treated as follows:

PROCEDURE A A solution of 31.5 g. of the crude Ot-(l-GthYl-3-PYY- rolidyl)-a,et-diphenylacetic acid hydrochloride and 42.8 g. (0.2 mole) of thionyl bromide in seventy ml. of chloroform was refluxed for seven hours. An infrared spectrum indicated formation of the acyl bromide but no rearrangement to the pyrrolidinone. The solutionwas concentrated, redissolved in ml. of chloroform and treated with fifty ml. of morpholine in a dropwise manner, with stirring. The resulting solution was extracted with dilute hydrochloric acid, concentrated, and the residue dissolved in 200 ml. of boiling 90% methanol. The solution was decolorized with Norite activated charcoal and filtered and 25 ml. of water added. On cooling, the product precipitated and was recrystallized from a methanol-water mixture. Yield 4.0 g.; M.P. 129-130".

Example 3.4- (B-bromoethyl) -3,3-diphenyl-1- ethyl-Z-pyrrolidinone PROCEDURE B A solution of 31.5 g. of the crude a-(1-ethyl-3-pyrrolidyl)-a,a-diphenylacetic acid hydrochloride and twenty ml. of phosphorus tribromide in seventy ml. of chloroform was refluxed for thirteen hours and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was crystallized from 90% methanol. M.P.129130.

A mixture of the two samples, respectively prepared by Procedures A and B, also melted at 129130.

.15 Example 4.3,3-diphenyl-4-(2-i0a'0ethyl)1 isopropyl-2-pyrr0lidin0ne A mixture of 2.30 g. (0.0071 mole) of u,a-diphenyla-(1-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidyl)-acetic acid and 2.1 g. (0.014 mole) of sodium iodide was refluxed in 25 ml. dry methyl ethyl ketone and 1.0 ml. acetic anhydride added. Reflux was continued for thirty minutes and an additional 1.0 ml. acetic anhydride was added. After an additional one hour of reflux, the solvent was removed at reduced pressure and the residue was dissolved in 25 ml. of 95% alcohols Chilling produced a white solid which was collected and recrystallized from 95 alcohol. Yield, 2.15 g. (70%); M.P. 143146. A mixture of this material with that prepared according to Example showed no depression of melting point.

Example 5 .-3,3-diphenyl-4- (Z-ioa'oethyl -1 I is0pr0pyl-2-pyrrolidinone V A mixture of 25.0 g. (0.073 mole) of 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-l-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone and 12.5 g. (0.083 mole) of sodium iodide in 200 ml. of acetone was stirred and refluxed for eighteen hours. About three-' fourths of the acetone was distilled ofi and 400 ml. of water was added slowly to the cooled mixture. The solid which formed was separated and recrystallized from 400 ml. of 95% alcohol. Yield, 24.9 g. (79%); M.P. 144- 147.5

Analysis.-Calcd for N, 3.28. 7

Additional illustrative examples of the general method and procedure for preparation of the acid (VI) and use thereof (with isolation) in preparation of the corresponding mixed anhydride, i.e., the acyl halide, (VII) and rearrangement of the acyl halide to the 4-omega-haloalkyl-2-pyrrolidinone (IX) are as follows (see also Example 13).

C21H24INO: N, 3.23- Found:

Example 6.a,a-Diphenyl-a-(1-is0pr0pyl-3-pyrrolidyl)- acetic acid A mixture of 36 g. (0.12 mole) of a,m-Cliphenyl-a- (1-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidy1)-acetonitrile in 120 g. of 70% sulfuric acid was heated at 128-134" for 64 hours. The hot solution was poured onto 100 g. of ice and this mixture was made strongly basic with 50% sodium hydroxide. The water was removed at reduced pressure and the residue was extracted with two 250 ml. portions of boiling absolute alcohol. The alcoholic extracts were dried at reduced pressure and the combined residue dissolved in 400 ml. of water and glacial acetic acid added until no more precipitate formed. The precipitated solid was collected and dried. Yield, 34.1 g. (88%). The material was recrystallized from dimethylformamide. M.P. 248-250 (dec.).

Analysis.Calcd for C I-1 190 C, 77.98; H, 7.79; N, 4.33. Found: C, 77.79; H, 7.99; N, 4.13.

Example 7. a-(l -ethyl-3-pyrrolidyl)-a,a-diphenylacetic acid and 4-(13-chl0r0ethyl)-1-etlzyl-3,3-a'iphenyl-2-pyrrolidinone a-(1-ethyl-3-pyrrolidyl)-a,u-diphenylacetic acid was prepared by the hydrolysis of a-(l-ethyl-S-pyrrolidyD- a,a-diphenylacetonitrile in 70% sulfuric acid at 130-140 for 48 hours. The free acid was isolated and crystallized from an ethanol-benzene mixture. M.P. 136-139 (decomposition).

Analysis.-Calcd for C I-I NO C, 77.64; H, 7.49. Found: C, 77.41; H, 7.33.

A suspension of 2.5 g. (0.0081 mole) of this acid in 100 ml. of dry chloroform was treated with dry hydrogen chloride gas until solution was complete; two ml. of thionyl chloride was added and the mixture was refluxed for two hours and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was crystallized from isopropyl ether. Yield 2 g.; M.P. 118l20'.

Analysis.Calcd for C H C1NO: C, 73.27; H, 6.76; N, 4.27; Cl, 10.82. Found: C, 73.50; H, 6.82; N, 4.38; Cl, 10.68.

In the manner of the preceding examples, but starting with the appropriate acetonitrile (IV) shown in Preparation 1 or in Table I, or the corresponding acid (VI) or intermediate amide (V) hydrolysis product, the following 4-omega-haloalkyl-Z-pyrrolidinones are prepared, the halo substituent varying with the acid halide employed or the halogen ion extraneously introduced into the reaction:

4- ,B-chloro ethyl) -3 -allyl-3 -pheny1-1isopropyl-2- py-rrolidinone 4- e-chloroethyl) -3 ,3-dicyclohexyl- 1-a1lyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4- fl-chloroethyl) -3 ,B-dimethyll-phenyl-2-pyrrolidinone 4- (B-chloroethyl -3 -benzy1-3-phenyll-isopropyl-Z- pyrrolidinone 4-(13-chloroethyl)-3-phenyl-3-( l-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidyl) 1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone 4- (B-chloroethyl -3-phenyl-3- (2- or 3-thienyl)-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidin one 4- fl-chloroethyl) -3-phenyl-3- (2- or 3-theny1) -1- isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone 4- (fl-chloroethyl) -3-phenyl-3- (p-methoxyphenyl 1- iso pro pyl-Z-pyrrolidin one 4- (B-chloroethyl) -3-phenyl-3-(m-chlorophenyl) -1 isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone 4- (fi-chloroethyl -3-phenyl-3- (o-methylphenyl -1- isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone 4- (fl-chloro ethyl) -3-methyl-3 -cyclopentyll-isopropyl- 2-pyrrolidinone 4- ,B-chloropropyl) -3 ,3-diphenyl 1-isopropyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4- e-bromop ropyl) -3 ,S-diphenyl- 1-isopropyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4- fi-chloroethyl) -4-methyl-3 ,3-dipheny1 1-isopropyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4- (B-chloroethyl) -5-methyl-3 ,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl- 2-pyrrolidinone 4- (gamma-chloropropyl) -3 -phenyl-3- (2.-piperidyl) -1- methyl-Z-pyrrolidinone 4- gamma-chloropropyl) -3 -phenyl-3- [4'- (N-methylpiperidyl) 1-1-isopropy1-2-pyrrolidinone 4-(fl-chloroethy1)-3 ,3 -diphenyll-methyl-Z-pyrrolidinone 4- (ii-chloro ethyl) -3 ,3-diphenyl-1-ethy1-2-pyrrolidinone 4- -ch1oro-2'-propyl)-3,3-dipheny1-l-isopropyl-Z- pyrrolidinone 4- e-chloro ethyl) -3 ,3 -diphenyll-isobutyl-2-pyrrolidinone 4-(fl-ch1oroethyl) -3 ,3-dipheny1- 1-cyclohexyl-2- pyrrolidiuone 4- (e-chloroethyl) -3 ,3-dipheny1- l-benzyl-2-pyrrolidinone 4- p-chloroethyl) -3-phenyl-3- (Z-pyridyl) -1-benzyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4- (fi-chloroethyl) 3-phenyl-3- (2-pyridyl) -1-isobutyl- 2-pyrrolidinone 4- (B-chloroethyl -3-phenyl-3- (2-pyridy1) -1-cyclohexyl- 2-pyrrolidinone 4- (fl-chloro ethyl) -3 -phenyl-3- (2-pyridyl)-1-n-butyl- 2-pyrrolidinone 4- fl-chloroethyl) -3 -phenyl-3 (2-pyridyl l-is opropyl- 2-pyrrolidinone 4- (fi-chloroethyl -3-phenyl-3- (2-pyridyl) -1-ethyl- 2-pyrrolidin one 4- (e-chloroethyl) -3 -phenyl-3-(2-pyridyl)-1-methyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4-(p-chloroethyl)-3-(p-methoxyphenyl)-3-(2-pyridyl)-1- Inethyl-Z-pyrrolidinone 4- ,B-chloroethyl -3- p-methoxyphenyl) -3- (Z-pyridyl) l-ethyl-Z-pyrrolidinone 4- fl-chloroethyl -3- (p-methoxyphenyl) -3- (2-pyridyl -1- isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone 4-(fl-chloroethyl)-3-isopropyl-3-pheny1-1-ethyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4- B-chloroethyl) 1,3 -diisopropyl-3 -phenyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4- (B-chloroethyl)-3-methyl-3-phenyl-IsisopropyI-Z- pyrrolidinone 4-(B-chloroethyl)3-cyclopentyl-3-phenyl-l-isopropyl-Z- pyrrolidinone 4- fi-chloroethyl) -3-cyclohexyl-3 -phenyl-1-isopropyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4- (A-chloro-2-butyl) -3 ,3-diphenyll-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone 4- (y-chlorobutyl) -3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4- 'y-chloro-B-methylpropyl) -3 ,3-diphenyll-is opropyl- 2-pyrrolidinone,

the last three compounds being produced by reacting the corresponding hydroxy compounds with the selected thionyl halide according to Example 29, as are the sixteenth and seventeenth compounds in the foregoing list.

While most of the foregoing products represent the omega-haloalkyl compounds (1X) produced using thionyl chloride or phosphorous trichloride, the corresponding 4-- omega-bromo compounds are produced when employing thionyl bromide or phosphorus tribromide, and corresponding iodides are produced when employing sodium iodide in an acetic anhydride medium.

In some cases, the nitrile (1V) hydrolysis, as abovedescribed, stops short of the acetic acid (VI) stage and rather produces, at least to a major extent, the corresponding oa- 1-substituted-3-pyrrolidyl) -a,a-disubstitutedacetamide (V). In other cases, production of the acetamide (V) may be effected by use of more concentrated solutions of acid, e.g., 80-100%, and sometimes even as low as 70%, or a lower temperature, thereby to effect only partial hydrolysis of the starting acetonitrile (IV) to the acetamide (V) rather than to the acid (VI). In such cases, the desired acid may be obtained from the amide by treating a lower aliphatic acid, e.g., acetic acid, solution of the acetamide (V) with a strong anhydrous min eral acid, preferably hydrochloric acid, together with a suitable source of nitrous acid such as an alkyl nitrite, e.g., n-butyl nitrite or iso-amyl nitrite. The alkyl nitrite is preferably introduced slowly into the solution of the acetamide with stirring, whereafter the solution is allowed to continue to react for an extended period of up to about 24 hours. Preferably, the solution is allowed to stand at temperatures up to about room temperature for a period of up to about twenty hours, and thereafter at higher temperatures, e.g., up to about 100 degrees centigrade, for a short period to complete hydrolysis to the acid. The resulting acid (VI) may then be isolated in the usual manner, as indicated in the foregoing, or by adding aqueous alkali, e.g., ten percent NaOI-i, to the hydrolysis reaction mixture to cause neutralization thereof, and thereafter precipitating the solid acid as by acidification of the neutralized solution with a weak acid, such as acetic acid or the like. The acid (VI) may, however, be converted with or without isolation, as indicated previously, to the corresponding acyl halide or other mixed anhydride, which in turn is rearranged (respectively without or with extraneous halogen ion) to the corresponding 4- haloalkyl-Z-pyrrolidinone. The preparation of the 4-haloalkyl-Z-pyrrolidinone directly from the acetamide (V) without isolation of the intermediate acid (V1) is illustrated by the following representative example:

Example 8.4- (fl-chloroethyl)-3-cycl0pentyl-1-isopr0pyl- 3-phenyZ-2-pyrr0lidinone 'A solution of 73 g. (0.232 mole) of a-(l-isopropyl-S- pyrrolidyl)-a-cyclopentyl-a-phenylacetamide in 200 ml. of glacial acetic acid was saturated with anhydrous hydrogen chloride and 47.9 g. (0.464 mole) of n-butyl nitrite was added slowly below the surface over a two-hour period while the solution was being stirred. The temperature of the mixture was controlled at 2630 during the addition, and then at room temperature for fifteen hours (overnight) and then at for three hours. The mixture was concentrated in vacuo and dissolved in 100 ml. of chloroform. The chloroform solution was washed with Water and concentrated, and the residue refluxed in 500 ml. of thionyl chloride for two hours. The excess thionyl chloride was removed in vacuo, the residue dissolved in chloroform, and the resulting solution washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated. The residue was distilled. B.P. l78-l80/0.03 mm. Distillate was crystallized from ligroin (B.P. 65-l10). Yield 57.3 g. (74%); M.P. 74.5-77.5.

4 (e chloroethyl) 1,3 di isop-ropyl 3 phenyl- 2-pyrrolidinone and 4 (e chloroethyl) 3 cyclohexyl- 1-isopropyl-3-phenyl-2-pyrrolidinone were prepared in the manner of Example 8 from iz-(l-is-opropyl-3-pyrrolidyl)- a-phenyl-a-isopr-opylacetarnide and a-(l-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidyl) -a-cyclohexyl-ot-phenylacetam-ide, respectively.

Although in going from the acetonitrile (IV) to the acid (VI) the acetamide (V) is an obvious and constant intermediate, it is seldom intentionally isolated in practice. However, its isolation is sometimes of advantage, as where hydrolysis under the conditions required to produce the acetic acid (VI) are such as may cause at least partial decarboxylati-on of the acid with resulting low yields thereof. An example of the preparation and isolation of an a,cz,cz-i-I-iSBbStitl1ted acetamid-e follows:

A solution of .150 g. (0.507 mole) of a-cyclopentyl-a- (l-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidyl)-a-phenylacetonitrile in 800 g. of 70% sulfuric acid was heated at 147 for 48 hours. The solution was poured onto ice, made basic with 50% sodium hydroxide and extracted with chloroform. The chloroform extract was washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated. The residue was distilled in vacuo. Yield g. (66%); B.P. 2'2'l-225/ 0.20 mm.

Analysis.CalCd for C H N O: C, 76.38; H, 9.62; N, 8.91. Found: C, 73.77; H, 9.39; N, 9.58.

Example 10.--Aa'a'iti0nal amides Other representative amides, prepared and isolated in the manner of Example 9 and purified by cooling, basifying, and extracting, Washing, drying and concentrating in conventional manner, are as follows:

a-Isopropyl-a-( 1-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidyl -a-phenylacetamide BB, 175180 C. at 0.05 mm. Hg pressure.

a-Cyclohexyl-n-( l-isopropyl-S-pyrrolidyl -a-phenylacetamide, B.P. 208-216" C. at 0.14- mm. Hg pressure.

a,a-Diphenyl-a-( 1-rnethyl-3 pyrrolidyl) -acetamide, M.P.

a,a-Diphenyl-m-( l-ethyl-3 -pyrrolidyl) -acetamide, M.P.

oc-( 1-cyclohexyl-3-pyrr-olidyl) m,u-diphenylacetamide,

M.P. 119-122 C.

u-( 1-ethyl-3-pyrrolidyl -0c-13l'l6fiYl-ot- Z-pyridyl) -acetamide, M.P. tell-161 C.

u- 1-methyl3-pyrrolidyl) -oz-phenyl-a-( 2-pyridyl) -acetamide, M.P. -153" C.

oz-( l-isopropyla3 -pyrrolidyl) -a-phenyl-a- 2-pyridyl)-acetamide, M.P. 127.5-133" C.

All of the foregoing acetamides (V) may be used as isolated in the preparation of the corresponding 4-haloalkyl-Z-pyrrolidinone without purification.

The physical constants of some representative 4- (omega-haloalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones, made from the acetonitrile (IV) via the amide (V), acid (Vi) and via rearrangement of acyl halide (VI-I), with or without isolation of the intermediate acetamide (V) and/or acetic acid (VI), or by introduction of extraneous halogen ion into the reaction mixture at the mixed anhydride (VIIB- VIII) stage, or as otherwise fully disclosed hereinafter, are shown in Table II, the gamma-halopropyl compounds being made in accord with the discussion in column 29 particularly in accord with Example 29.

Example 1 1 .3,3-diphenyl4-(2-hydr0xyethyl) -1-is0- propyl-Z-pyrrolidinone Table II REPRESENTATIVE 4-(OMEGA-HALOALKYD-Z-PYRROLIDINONES 1 A -(CHR") nGHRCHR"-X I! O- N R g.

Analysis M. R R A X n 33.), 0 H N Misc.

. Oalcd. Calcd. Oulod. Calcd. Found Found Found Found CH CAFE On": Cl 0 140-1 72. 71 6. 42 4. 46 C1, 11. 72. 87 6. 44 4. 48 11. 05 Cal f (JR CAPT: Cl 0 117-9 73. 27 G. 76 4. 27 Cl, 10. 82 73. 6. 82 4. 35 10. G8 02H; CaH5 CuHs Br 0 129-30 64. 52 5.96 3. 76 B1, 21.47 64. 26 5. 99 3. 96 21. 39 1-C3H7 C0115 C511 C1 0 106-8 73. 77 7.08 4. 10 01, 10.37

73. 52 6. 79 4. 16 10. i-CaH1 C0115 0H5 Cl 0 102-4 68. 67 7. 93 5.01 01, 12.67 68. 84 7. 73 5. 16 12. 39 i-CaH 1-03111 Cn'Fl'r Cl 0 95-6 70. 22 8. 51 4. C1, 11. 52 70. 19 8. 41 4. 62 11. 29 cm. cm. 01 0 74. 5:15 71. 93 s. 45 4. 20

72.15 8.16 4. 21 l-CaH1 CoHu CuHr Cl 0 109-11 72. 49 8.69 4.03 72. 54 8. 68' 4.17 1-C4H9 CsHs C0115 C1 0 113.64.5 74.24 7.36 3.94 74. 37 7. 45 3. 98 Cy-CsHu CsHls C0115 C1 0 1512 75. 47 7.39 3. 67 75.50 7. 86' 3.82 canon. om. cm. or 0 110 71. 05 0. l8 3. 59 77.28 5.99 3.69 1-CaH7 0 H; 0 H; I 0 147-149 58.20 6. 58 58.05 5. 37 i-CaH7 CFFH CAHK Cl 1 85-86. 5 74. 24 7. 36 74. 51 7. 37 cm. cane- 3-pyridyl or 0 100-103 00. as a 44 69.31 6.28

Side-chain C-{Fh C-H'r CA! Cl 0 150453 73.77 7.08 4.10 CHOHxCHz- 73. 92 6. 92 4. 34 C-fFh can! C 11 O1 0 141-142 73. 77 7. 08 4.10 --CH:OHGH:

1 R equals H, except last two compounds where one R" equals CH As indicated in the foregoing discussion and Chart 2, the 4-(omega-haloalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones are convertible into numerous other corresponding 4-(ornega-substituted alkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones. The various omega substituents are generally introduced into the 4-alkyl group of the 2-pyrrolidinone by displacement of the omega halogen with an appropriate basic residue. These rcactionsare generally carried out by heating an alkali metal, e.g., sodium, salt of an alcohol, phenol, inorganic acid, or organic acid with the 1,3,3-trisubstituted-4-(Omega haloalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinone in an appropriate solvent followed concentrated in vacuo. The residue was partitioned between chloroform and water and the chloroform layer was washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium su1 fate and concentrated in vacuo. The residue crystallized and was recrystallized from aqueous ethanol. Yield 22 g. (73%); MP. -182 C.

The 4-(omega-acyloxy alkyl)-2pyrrolidinone compounds are prepared either from the selected 4-(omegahaloalkyl)-2-pyrrolid-inone by the conventional displacement route, as with an appropriate alkali metal salt of the selected acid, ve.g., a sodium alkanoate such as sodium acetate or the like, preferably in dimethyltor-rnamide solvent, according tostandard procedure, as indicated by Example 12, or by the direct route involving acylation of the starting acetic acid (V1) with the appropriate acid anhydride to produce the mixed anhydride, in this case the acyiate, and then continuing the reaction in the presence of suitable solvent, e.g., more of the acid anhydride, with heating to cause rearrangement thereof to the desired 4 (omega-acyloxyalkyl)-2 pyrrolidinone. In this case, referring to Chart 3, the symbols Y'and Q are the same, both being the acylate radical. The direct acylation reaction via rearrangement of the acylate of the acid (VI) is illustrated by Example 1 3.

Example 12.4-(2-acet0xyethyl) -3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone A mixture of eighteen g. (0.22 mole) of sodium acetate and seventy g. (0.205 mole) of 4-(2-chloroethyl)3,3-diphenyl-l-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone in 500 ml. of dimethylformamide was stirred and refluxed for fifteen hours, partitioned between 500 ml. of water and 500 ml. of chloroform,,and the layers separated. The chloroform layer was washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo, and the residue crystallized from 85% aqueous methanol. Yield 54 g. (72%); M.P. 9194.

Example 1 .--4-(2-acetoxyethyl) -3,3-diphenyl-1-is0- propyl-2-pyrr0lidin0ne A mixture of 2.50 g. (0.0077 mole) of cc,a-diphenyl-oc- 1-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidyl) acetic acid and twenty ml. acetic anhydride was refluxed five hours. Water (60 ml.) was then added cautiously and an oil separated which crystallized on cooling. The solid was collected and recrystallized from methanol and water (2:1). Yield, 1.65 g. (59% M.P. 9294.5. A mixture melting point with an authentic sample was undepressed.

The 4-(omega-mercaptoalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinoues are prepared by the conventional halogen displacement reaction using an alkali metal hydrogen sulfide, in accord with the manner of Example .14.

Example 14.--3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-4-(Z-mercaptoethyl) -2-pyrr0lidin0ne A solution of 16.2 g. (0.176 mole) of sodium hydrogen sulfide dihydrate and thirty g. (0.088 mole) of 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone in 400 ml. of 85 ethanol was refluxed for seven hours and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was partitioned between anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was distilled. Yield seventeen g. (57% B.P. 220230/ 0.05 mm. The distillate was crystallized from an ethanol-water mixture, M.P. 104-107.

The 4 --(omega-lower-alkylme-rcaptoalkyl)2-pyrnolidinones are preparable in a variety of ways. They may be prepared, for example, by alkylation of the corresponding mercaptoa-lkyl compound in conventional manner, as with an alkyl halide under basic conditions, as shown in Example 15. Alternatively, they may be prepared by reacting the cor-responding 4- (omega-haloalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinone with a lower-alkyl mercapt-an.

Preparation of the 4-(fl-alkylmercaptoethyl) derivatives from the 4-(;3-mercaptoethyl) derivatives by alkylation with an alkyl, e.g., methyl bromide is illustrated by the following Example 15.

Example 15.3,3'-a'iphenyl-1-is0pr0pyl-4- (Z-methyL mercaptoethyl) -2-pyrr0lidin0ne A solution of 11.5 g. (0.12 mole) of methyl bromide in 200 ml. of absolute ethanol was added to a solution of the lower-alkoxy, phenoxy, benzyloxy, and like compounds, are prepared from the corresponding 4-haloalkyl compounds by conventional replacement of the halogen atom using an alkali metal alcohola-te or an alkali metal,

e.g., sodium, solution of the selected alcohol, the alcohol chloroform and water and the chloroform layer dried over chloroform and dilute sodium hydroxide.

or alcohol moiety in either case corresponding to the group desired to appear in the omega position of the 4-alkyl group. Some representative ether formations are illustrated by Examples 16 and 17.

Example 1 6 .3 ,3-diphenyl-1 -is0propyl-4-(fi-meth0xyethyl) -2-pyrr0lidin0ne A solution of 34 g. (0.1 mole) of 4-(2-chl-oroethyl)- 3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-2pyrrolidinone in 150 ml. of absolute methanol was added to fifty ml. of absolute methanol in which 2.5 g. (0.11 gram atom) of sodium had been dissolved. The solution was heated in a closed system for sixteen hours at 140. Addition of fifty ml. of water to the resulting mixture yielded 27.5 g. (81%) of material which was recrystallized from a methanol-water mixture. M.P.-105-106.

3,3-diphenyl-l-isobutyl-4(fl-methoxyethyl)-2-pyrrolidinone was prepared in the manner of Example 16 from 4 (2 chloroethyl) 5 3, 3 diphenyl l-isobutyl-2-pyrrolidinone and sodium methoxide.

Sodium phenoxide was formed by adding a solution of 8.3 g. (0.088-mole) of phenol in 100 ml. of absolute ethanol to 200 ml. of absolute ethanol in which had been dissolved two g. (0.088 gram atom) of sodium metal, and thirty g. (0.088 mole) of 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3,3-diphenyl- 1-isQpropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone in 100 ml. of absolute ethanol was added. The resulting solution was refluxed for seven hours and concentrated in vacuo and the residue was partitioned between water and chloroform. The chloroform layer was dried with anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo and the residue crystallized from an ethanol-water mixture. Yield 17 g. (48.5%); M.P. 104-106".

3,3-diphenyl 1 isopropyl-4-[,6-(o-methoxyphenoxy)- ethyl]-2-pyrrolidinone was prepared in the manner of Example 17 from 4-(fi-chloroethyl) -3,3-diphenyl-l-isopropyl- Z-pyrr-dlidinone and the sodium salt of gua-iacol, and the 3 ,3 -diphenyll-iso pro pyl-4-' fi-benzy loxyethyl) -2-pyrrolidinone is prepared in identical manner from 4-( 6-chloroethyl)3,3-diphenyl 1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone and sodium benzyloxide.

The 4-alky1 derivatives, that is, those compounds in which the omega substituent is hydrogen, are prepared by reducing the corresponding 4-omega-haloalkyl compound using a metal-acid combination according to the following example, indicating a further use of some of the compounds of the present invention.

Example 18.3,3-diphenyl-4-ethyl-l-isopropyl-Z- pyrrolidinone A solution of 25 g. (0.073 mole) of 4-(2-chloroet-hyl)- 3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone, 25 g. of potassium bromide and sixty ml. of 48% hydrobromic acid in 250 ml. of acetic acid was stirred and refluxed for two hours followed by addition of sixty g. of zinc dust in small portions. Another sixty ml. of 48% hydrobromic acid was added dropwise over a two-hour period to the refluxing solution and it was allowed to stand overnight at room temperature and filtered. The filtrate was concentrated in vacuo and the residue was partitioned between The chloroform layer was separated, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated, and the residue was crystallized from aqueous ethanol. Yield nine g. (40%); M.P. -97

3,3-diphenyl-4-ethyl-l-isobutyl 2 pyrrolidinone, M.P. 94-965", was prepared in the manner of Example 18 from the corresponding 4-(B-chloroethyl) compound.

In the manner of the preceding discussion and particularly in accord with Example 11, or by direct hydrolysis of the corresponding 4-omega-haloalkyl-Z-pyrrolidinone 4- fl-mercaptoethyl) -3 3 -dipheny-l-1-cyclohexyl) -2- pyrrolidinone 4- ,e-benzyloxyethyl) -3,3 -diphenyl-1-benzyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4- ,8- (m-chlorophenoxy) -et hyl] -3 -pheny1-3- (Z-pyridyl) l- 5 benzyl-Z-pyrrolidinone 4- (B-propoxyethyl-S -phenyl-3 -(2-pyridyl-1 )-isobutyl- 2-pyrrolidinone 4- B-octyloxyethyl) 3 -phenyl-3 (Z-pyridyl) -1-cyclohexyl- 2-pyrrolidinone 4- (,B-ethylmercaptoethyl) -3 -phenyl-3- 2-pyridyl) l-nbutyl-2-pyrroh'dinone 4- B- o-methylphenoxy) -ethyl] -3-phenyl-3- (2-pyridyl) 1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone While the foregoing products are representative 4-(omeget-substituted alkyl-Z-pyrrolidinone compounds, produced by varying the halogen replacement reagent conventional- 1y but in accord with Examples 12 through 17, numerous apparent to one skilled in the art.

The physical constants of some representative 4-(omega-substituted alkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones, wherein the omega 15 substituent is attached through an oxygen or sulfur atom,

Pyrmhdmone are shown in Table III.

Table III 4-( OMEGA-SUBSTITUTED ALKYL)-2-PYRROLIDINONES l R RI! .A---(CHR)..CHR"OHR"B II O\N/-R 1 Analysis Ml. R R A B n (155.), C H N Misc Oalcd. Calcd. Calcd. Calcd. Found Found Found Found g!) i-CaH CoHs CaHs O-C-CH3 0 91-4 75.58 7.45 3.83 75. 7. 32 3. i-CaH1 C6115 CuH5--. SH 0 104-7 74.29 7.42 4.13 8,9.44 74. 54 7. 54 4. 23 9. 73 i-CsH'l Cali 5...". CeHa SCH3 0 1235 74.74 7.70 3.96 S, 9.07 74. 87 7. 91 4. 15 8. 58

i-olm can. can. 0-011. o 86.7 78.59 8.32 3.99

78.58 8.21 4.04 i-CaH-z C5H5-- CaH5 0-0113 0 -6 78.30 8.07 4.15 78.10 7.90 4.17 5, cm. cm. 0-41.77. 0 104-6 81. 17 7. 32 3. 51 81.32 7.40 3.53 PC3117 CuHs CqH5 OH 0 180-2 77.98 7.79 4.33 78.25 7.90 4.32 i-GSHL 01H. cm. OH 1 142-143 78. 30 8. 07 4. 15 78.24 8.03 4.20

i-CaH-l 0 H. 07H. O 0 -7 78.29 7.28 3.26 7 .03 7.50 3.42 CHaO i-C3H1 CsH5....... C5115 0-C0- 0 104-105 75.67 6.59 6.54 75. 52 6. 51 6.39

1-o=II1 om, 0 H; -ooo- 0 111-112 75.82 6.59 3.16 H0 75. 05 6. 57 3. 25

1 B equals other than halogen 01 amino; attached through oxygen or sulfur at omega position; R equals hydrogen.

4- fi-phenoxyethyD -3 -phenyl-3 2-pyridyl) 1-methyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4-(B-butylmercaptoethyl)-3-(p-methoxyphenyl)-3-(2 pyridyl)-1 -methyl-2-pyrrolidinone 4-(fi-ethylmercaptoethyl) -3-(p-methoxyphenyl)-3-(2- pyridyl) l-ethyl-Z-pyrrolidinone pyrrolidin-one 4-(fi-acetoxyethyl)-1,3-di-isopropyl-3-phenyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4- fi-mercapto ethyl) -3-methyl-3 -phenyl-1-isopropyl-2- pyrrolidinone 4- B-butylmercaptoethyl) -3-cyclopentyl-3-phenyl-1- isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone 4- (fl-benzyloxyethyl) -3-cyclohexyl-3-pheny11-isbpropyl- 2-pyrrolidinone The 4-(omega-cyanoalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones are prepared in conventional manner by reaction of the selected 69 4-haloalkyl-2-pyrrolidinone with an alkali metal cyanide, e.g., sodium cyanide, usually by heating the reactants to gether in a suitable organic solvent, preferably dimethylformamide or the like. This procedure can be applied equally Well to the 4-(,8-haloalkyl) compounds and the 4- ('y-haloalkyl) compounds, in each case to introduce the cyano group in place of the halogen atom, and thus to extend the 4-alkyl carbon chain. A representative emample of this procedure is given in Example 19.

7 Example 19.5,3-diphenyl-J-is0pr0pyl-2-pyrrolidin0ne-4- propz'onitrile A mixture of 342 g. (1.0 mole) of 4-chloroethyl-3,3- diphenyl-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone and 75 g. 1.5 mole) 75 of sodium cyanide in one liter of dime-thylformamide was others may be prepared in the same manner and will be previously stirred and heated to a temperature of 100 over' a onehour period, and this temperature was maintained for an additional three hours. The mixture was poured into ice water and the precipitated white crystalline solid filtered and recrystallized from isopropanol. Yield, 288 g. (87%); M.P. 150-151".

The 4-(omega-carboxyalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones are prepared by conventional acid hydrolysis of the corresponding 4-(-om-ega cyanoalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones, employing a concentrated mineral acid reagent in the same manner as given for hydrolysis of the nitrile (IV) to the acid (VI) A reaction period of 24 hours and a temperature not in excess of 100 degrees is usually adequate. The following Example 20 indicates the hydrolysis procedure employed.

Example 2O.--3,3-diphenyl-1-is0pr0pyI-Z-pyrrolidinone- 4-pr0pionic acid A mixture of 94 g. (0.28 mole) of 3,3-diphenylal-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone:4-propionitrile and 500 ml. of

70% sulfuric acid was stirred and heated at 80-90 for 24 hours and poured into ice and water. The precipitated solid was filtered and recrystallized from a chloroformligroin mixture. Yield, 93%; M.P. l75-l76.

The 4-(cmega-carbalkoxyalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones are prepared .from the 4-(omega-carboxyalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones by standard esterification procedure involving the acid and the selected alcohol in the presence of a suitable esterification catalyst, e.g., hydrogen chloride, sulfuric acid, cation exchange resins, or an aromatic sulfonic acid such as. benzene or p-toluene sulfonic acid, preferably with removal of either the ester product or water of rea ct-ion if optimum yields are desired. Alternatively, the ac d may be reacted with a diazoalkane, e.g., diazomethane, in excellent yield, or an alkyl halide may be reacted with an alkali metal salt of the acid, in usual manner. Alternatively, the acid may first be converted to an acid halide as by treatment with thionyl chloride or bromide, phosphorus trichloride or tribromide, or the like, in the accepted manner for such type reactions, and the a-cid chloride then reacted with a selected alkanol or phenol or alkali metal salts thereof to give high yieldsof the desired ester. Example '21 is representative of the preparation of an acid halide of a 4-(omega-carboxyalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinone, and Example 22 is indicative of the esterification of a 4-(omega-carboxyalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinone to produce a 4-(omega-carbalkoxyalkyl)2-pyrrolidinone.

Example 21 .3,3-diphenyl-1-isopr0pyl-2-pyrr0lidin0ne-4 propionyl chloride Example 22.-Ethyl 3,3-diphenyl-1isopropyl-2 173 2- r0liclirz0ne-4-pr0pi0nate To 200 ml. of dry ethanol was added 2.05 g. (0.09 mole) of sodium. When solution was complete thirty g. (0.08 mole) of 3,3-diphenyl-l-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone- 4-propionyl chloride in 300 ml. of dryethanol was added rapidly (the ethanolic sodium ethoxide was hot when the acid chloride was added but the resulting reaction apthe definition of amino.

p-eared not to be exothermic); The mixture was stirred .at room temperature overnight and filtered. The filtrate was concentrated and the residue was partitioned between 250 ml. of chloroform and 250 ml. of water. The chloroform solution was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated. The residue was crystallized from 70% ethanol. Yield, 23 g. (75%).. M.P. 8485. Recrystallized from 70% methanol; M.P. 84-85" C.

Analysis.--Calcd for C H NO C, 75.96; H,.7.70; N, 3.69. Found: C. 76.14; H, 7.85; N, 3.79.

The 4-(omega-carbamylalkyl) 2 pyrrolidinones are prepared by reaction of ammonia or 'anamine with a 4- (omega-carbalkoxyalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinone or the acid halide of a 4-(omega-carboxyalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinone, preferably the latter. The reaction is usually conducted using cold concentrated ammonium hydroxide to produce the primary amide, and using a primary or secondary amine in hydrocarbon, e.g., benzene, solvent at a temperature between room temperature and the reflux temperature of the solvent involved, usually 20-80 centigrade, to produce the primary or secondary amine-containing carbamyl radicals, such as N-phenylor N-(loweralkyl)-carbamyl and N,N-di-(loweralkyl)-carbamyl, as Well as N,N- (monocyclic alkyl or saturated heterocyclic) carbamido radicals, wherein the saturated monocyclic heterocyclic radical is as set forth hereinbefore under Representative of the preparation of various types of 4-(ornega-carbamylalkyl)-2- pyrrolidinones are Examples 23, 24, and 25, which immediately follow.

Example 23.3,3 diphenyl-1 -z'sopropyI-Z-pyrrolidinone- 4-pr0pi0mamide 3,3 diphenyl 1 -'isopropyl 2 pyrrolidinone 4 propionyl chloride 54 g. (0.146 mole), was added in small portions to cold, concentrated-ammonium hydroxide solution. The mixture was stirred vigorously during the addition and for an additional half hour and the resulting solid was filtered, washed with water and crystallized from a chloroform-ligroin mixture. Yield, 46 g. M.P. 203.5-205".

Example 24.3,3 diphenyl-1-isopr0pyl-Z-pyrrolia'inonc- 4-(N-methylpropionamide) A solution of 7.75 g. (0.25 mole) of methylamine in ml. of benzene was added dropwise with stirring to a suspension of 25 g. (0.068 mole) of 3,3dipl1enyl-1- isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone-4-propionyl chloride in benzene. After addition, the preparation was'brought slowly to reflux and reflux continued for one hour- The solvent was evaporated and the residue crystallized from methanol. Yield, 84%; M.P. -171".

Example 25 .-3,3 diphenyl-1-is0pr0pyl-2-pyrr0lidin0ne- 4-(N,Ndimethylpropionamidc) 29 Example 26.3,3 diphenyl-I-ispr0pyl-4-(fl-propionylethyl) 2 pyrrolidinone [3,3 diphenyl 1 isopropyl- 2-pyrr0lidin0ne-4- (3 '-pentan0ne A Grignard reagent was prepared from 10.9 grams (0.1 mole) of ethyl bromide and 2.4 grams (0.1 mole) of magnesium in 100 milliliters of dry ethyl ether. The reagent was cooled and ten grams (0.055 mole) of cadmium chloride was added and the resulting mixture was refluxed for one hour.; The ether was removed by dis tillation and 200 milliliters of dry toluene was added and this mixture was heated at ninety degrees for thirty minutes, then cooled to sixty degrees, and thirty grams (0.081 mole.) of 3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone- 4-propiony1 chloride in 150 milliliters of dry toluene was added in a dropwise fashion. The resulting mixture was stirred at 85 degrees for two hours, then cooled and hydrolyzed with water and six normal hydrochloric acid. The toluene layer was separated, washed with dilute sodium hydroxide, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was distilled at reduced pressure. Yield, eight grams; B.P. 220-250 0.2 mm. The material was crystallized several times from 60% aqueous ethanol and melted 120-1225".

Analysis.-Calcd for C H NO C, 79.30; H, 8.04; N, 3.85. Found: C, 79.47; H, 8.07; N, 4.06.

It will be obvious that, in the event it is desired that the carbon chain at the 4 position of the pyrrolidinone nucleus be greater than two carbon atoms, this is conveniently accomplished by starting with the appropriate two carbon atom side-chain omega-haloalkyl compound and preparing the omega-nitrile in accord with the foregoing disclosure and in particular accord with Example 19. This nitrile may then be converted to the acid, also as shown in the foregoing and particularly in accord with Example 20, which in turn may be converted to the acid halide, as previously discussed and particularly in accord with Example 21, or converted to an ester as fully described hereinbefore and particularly illustrated by Example 22. Either the acid halide, e.g., chloride, or the ester may be converted to the corresponding omega-hydroxyalkyl compound by reduction, the ester with sodium and alcohol, or the acid halide with sodium borohydride, in accord with conventional procedure, as respectively illustrated by Examples 27 and 28. The 4-(omega-hydroxyalkyl) compound is then reacted with a suitable halogenating agent, e.g., thionyl chloride, phosphorus trichloride, the corresponding bromo reagents, or the like, to replace the hydroxy group by a halogen atom and produce the corresponding omega-haloalkyl compound in accord with Example 29. This in turn may be reacted with an alkali metal cyanide to again produce the nitrile in accord with Examples 19 and 30, in each case having a side-chain containing one carbon atom more than the starting 4-(omega-haloalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinone with which the reaction sequence originates. Examples 27, 28, 29 and 30 follow.

Example 27.3,3 diphenyl-4-('y-hydr0xypr0pyl)-1-is0- propyl-Z-pyrrolidinone To a boiling solution of five g. (0.013 mole) of ethyl 3,3 diphenyl 1 isopropyl 2 pyrrolidinone 4 propionate in fifty ml. of absolute ethanol was added as ra idly as possible two g. (0.087 mole) of sodium. The reaction of the sodium with the alcohol was completed by heating to reflux. The unreacted ester was hydrolyzed by adding thirty ml. of water and refluxing one hour. The solvent was removed on the rotary evaporator and the residue partitioned between 100 ml. of water and 100 ml. of chloroform. The chloroform solution was dried with anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated and the residue crystallized. Yield, 1.6 g. (36%); MP. after recrystallization from 50% ethanol 140-1415".

Analysis.Calcd for c t-1 x0 c, 78.30; H, 8.07; N, 4.15. Found: C, 78.24; H, 8.03; N, 4.20.

Example 28.3,3 diphenyl4-(gamma-hydr0xypr0pyl)- 1-is0pr0pyl-2-pyl'r0lidin0lte To a suspension of ten g. of sodium borohydride in 100 ml. of dry dioxane was added rapidly and with stirring 25 g. (0.0675 mole) of 3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl2-pyrrolidinone-4-propionyl chloride in 200 ml. of dry dioxan. The mixture was stirred at reflux for four hours, cooled to room temperature and 100 ml. of water added carefully. The mixture was partitioned between 500 ml. of Water and 300 ml. of chloroform. The Water layer was extracted with another 300 ml. of chloroform; the chloroform solution combined, dried with anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated on the rotary evaporator. The residue was crystallized from 70% ethanol and recrystallized twice from isopropyl ether. Yield, ten g. (44%); MP. 142143. A mixed melting point with a sample from the previousexample gave no depression.

Example 29.4-( gamma-chloropropyl)-3,3-diplzenyl-1 isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone A solution of 7.4 g. (0.062 mole) of thionyl chloride in fifty ml. of chloroform was added dropwise to a solution of 10.5 g. (0.031 mole) of 3,3-diphenyl-4-(gamma-hydroxypropyl)-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone and 4.9 g. (0.062 mole) of pyridine in 100 ml. of chloroform with stirring and ice bath cooling. When addition was complete the mixture was heated to reflux and maintained there for five hours, and then cooled with an ice bath. 100 m1. of water was added with stirring followed by fifty ml. of three Normal hydrochloric acid. The chloroform layer was separated, dried with anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo and the residue crystallized from 150 ml. of ca. 60% ethanol. Yield, eight g. (72.5%); Ml. -86.5.

Example 30.3,3-diphenyl-1-is0pr0pyl-2-pyrr0lidinone-4- butyronitrile. [4-(3-cyanopr0pyl)-3,3-diphenyl 1 isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone] A mixture of 3.9 grams (0.08 mole) of sodium cyanide, 9.2 grams (0.026 mole) of 4-(3-chloropropyl)-3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone and milliliters of dimethyl formamide was stirred at reflux for seventeen hours. The mixture was filtered and the filtrate was concentrated in vacuo. The residue was crystallized twice from isopropyl alcohol. Yield, five grams (55%); M.P. 107-408". A constant melting point of 126-127 was obtained after several additional crystallizations.

Analysis.-Calcd for C l-1 19 0: C, 79.73; H, 7.57; N, 8.09. Found: C, 79.53; H, 7.38; N, 7.95.

The resulting 4-(gamma-halopr opyl)-2-pyrrolidinones and 4-(A-halobutyl) -2-pyrrolidinones are reacted with the same reagents as shown in Examples 12 and 14 through 17 to produce the corresponding 4-(gamma-substitutedpropyl)-2-pyrrolidinones and 4-(A-substituted-butyl)-2- pyrrolidinones. Moreover, the 4-(gamma-cyanopropyl)- Z-pyrroldinones are additionally converted to further corresponding 4-(gamma-carboxypropyl) -2-pyrrolidinones, 4- (gamma-carbalkoxypropyl)-2-pyrrolidinones, 4-(gammacarbamylpropyl)-2-pyrrolidinones, and 4-(gamma-alkanoylpropyl)-2-pyrrolidinones, as already fully discussed hereinbefore and illustrated by Examples 20 through 26.

Compounds produced in this manner, for example, are included in the following. I

In the manner of the preceding Examples 19 through 26, starting with the appropriate nitrile, which is itself prepared by reaction of alkali metal cyanide with the corresponding 4-(omega-haloalkyl)-2pyrrolidinone, the following compounds are prepared, the nitriles, acids, acid 4- B-carboxyethyl -3-allyl-3-pheny1-1-isopropyl-2- pyrrrolidinone from the corresponding cyanoethyl compound by acid hydrolysis.

4- ,B-carbomethoxyethyl -3 ,3-dicyclohexy1- 1-a1lyl-2- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-carboxyethyl compound by acid esterification with methanol.

4- fl-carb ethoxyethyl -3 ,3 -dimethyl-1-phenyl-2-pyrro1idinone from the corresponding e-carboxyethyl compound by acid esterification with ethanol.

4- B-carbobenzoxyethyl -3-benzyl-3-phenyll-isopropyl- 2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-carboxyethyl compound by acid esterification with benzyl alcohol.

4- fl-chlorocarbonylethyl) -3-phenyl-3- l-isopropyl- 3-pyrrolidyl)-1-isopropyl-l-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-carboxyethyl compound and thionyl chloride.

4-(fi-carboisopropoxyethyl)-3-phenyl-3-(2- or 3-thienyl)- 1-isopropy1-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding chlorocarbonylethyl compound and sodium isopropoxide.

4- B-carbamylethyl -3-phenyl-3- (2- or 3-thienyl)-1- isopropyi-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding 7, fi-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and ammonia.

4-(B-N-methyl carbamylethyl)3-phenyl-3-(p-methoxyphenyl)-1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and methylamine.

4- B-N,N-dimethy1 carbarnylethyl) -3-phenyl-3- (mchlorophenyl)-l-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,B-chlor-ocarbonylethyl compound and dimethylamine.

4-(fi-N-benzyl carbamylethyl )-3-phenyi-3-(o-methy1- phenyl)-l-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,B-chlorocarbonylet-hyl compound and benzylamine.

4- fi-piperidinocarbonylethyl -3-methyl-3-cyclopentyl- 1-isopropy1-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloro-carbonylethyl compound and piperidine.

4- (B-cyanopropyl) -3 ,B-diphenyll-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloropropyl compound and sodium cyanide.

4- (ti-hex amethylene iminocarbonylethyl) -3 ,3 -dipheny1- 1- isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B- chlorocarbonylpropyl compound and hexamethyleneimine.

4-(fl-pyrrolidinocarbonylethyl)-4methyl3,3'diphenyl-1- isopropy1-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding 8- chlorocarbonylethyl compound and pyrrolidine.

4- (fi-cyanoethyl) -5-methyl-3,3-diphenyl-l-isopropyl-2- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-bromoethyl compound and sodium cyanide.

4-(gamma-cyanopropyl)-3-pheny1-3-(2'-piperidy1)-lmethyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding gamma-chloropropyl compound and sodium cyanide.

4- (gamma-morpholinocarbonylpropyl) -3-pheny1-3-[4- (N-rnethylpiperidyl) ]-1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding'gamma-chlorocarbonylpropyl compound and morphol-ine.

4-(fi-N'-methylpiperazinocarbonylethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-1- methyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding chlorocarbonylethyl compound and N-methylpiperazine.

4- (p3- acetylethyl -3 ,3-dipheny1- 1-ethy1-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding p-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and dimethyl cadmium.v

4-('y-propiony1-2'-propyl)-3,3-dipheny1-l-isopropyl-2- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding 'y-chlorocarbonyl-2-propyl compound and diethyl cadmium.

. 32* t 4- [3benzoylethy1)'-'3 3 -diphenyll-isobutyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-cyanoethyl compound and phenyl magnesium bromide.

p 4- ,e-phenylacetylethyl) -3 ,3-diphenyll-cyclohexyl-Z- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and dibenzyl cadmium.

4- ,B-butyrylethyl -3 3 -dipheny1- l-benzyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,S-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and dipropyl cadmium.

4-(j3-carboxyethyl)-3-phenyl-3-(2-pyridyl)-1-benzyl-2- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-cyanoethyl compound by acid hydrolysis.

4- fi-bromocarbonylethyl) -3-pl 1eny1-3- (2-pyridyl)-1- isobuty1-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding carboxyethyl compound andphosphorus tribromide.

4- (fl-carbethoxyethyl) -3-pheny1-3 (Z-pyridyl) -1.-cyc1ohexyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and sodium ethoxide.

4- fi-carbutoxyethyl -3 -phenyl-3 (Z-pyridyl) -1-n-butyl- Z-pyrroiidinone from the corresponding B-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and sodium butoxide.

4-(5 N,N dimethylcarbamylethyl)-3-phenyl-3-(2-pyrid-' yl)-1-isopropyl-2pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and dimethylamine.

pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,B-chlorocarbonyl-ethyl compound and ammonia.

4-(fi-carboisopropoxyethyl) 3 phenyl-3-(2-pyridyl)-1- methyl-Z-pyrroiidinone from the corresponding fi-chlorocarbonyiethyl compound and sodium isopropoxide;

4-([i-carboisobutoxyethyl) 3 (p-methoxyphenyD-B-(Z- pyridyi)-l-methyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and sodium isobutoxide.

4-(/3N,N dimethylcarbamylethyl) 3 4 (p-methoxyphenyl)-3-(2-pyridyl)-1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and dimethylamine.

4-(18 N,N dimethylcarbamylethyl)-3-(p-methoxyphen yl)-3-(2-pyridy1)-1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and dimethylaminc.

4-(B-N,N-dimethylcarbamylethyl) 3-isopropyl-3-phenyll-ethyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and dimethylamine.

4-(fl-N,N-dimethylcarbamylethyl) 1,3 di-isopropyl-3- phenyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and dimethylamine.

4-(fl-N,N dimethylcarbamylethyl)-3-methyl-3-phenyl-1- isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidin0ne from the corresponding 5- chlorocarbonylethyl compound and dimethylamine.

4-(l3-N,N dirnethylcarbamyiethyl)-3-cyclopentyl-3-phenyl-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and dimethylamine.

4-(fi-N,N dimethylcarbamylethyl)-3-cyclohexyl-3-phenyl-l-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-chlorocarbonylethyl compound and dimethylamine.

4-(A-cyano 2-butyl)-3,3-diphenyl-l-isopropyLZ-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding chloro compound and sodium cyanide.

4-(gamma-cyanobutyl)-3,3-diphenyl 1 isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from thecorresponding chloro compound and sodium cyanide.

4-(gamma-cyano-B-methylpropyl) 3,3-diphenyl-l-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding chloro compound and sodium cyanide.

The physical constants of some representative 4-(ornegasubstituted alkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones, wherein the omega substituent is attached through a carbon atom, are shown in Table IV.

' 4- (omega-haloalkyl -2-pyrrolidiuone and the Table IV A- -(CHR),.OHR"CHR"-B I! O- N R t.

Analysis M.P. R R A B n (12.5.), C H N Galcd. Calcd. Calcd. Found Found Found i-CsHv,..... C7171 C CN- 150.5-151 79.48 7.28 8.43 79.21 7.08 8.27 i-CaH1 CgHs C HE COOH 0 175176 71.18 7.17 74. 99 7.29

(I? /CH.-. l-CaH1 C CR? C-N 0 149-150 76. 7. 99 75.99 7.89

CH3 7 i-CaH1 C 11 CuH5 O-NHz 0 203.5-205 75.40 7.48 g 75.55 7.68

i-CaH7 CaHs CflHi O-N-CH: 0 170-171 75.79 7.74

75.66 7.82 i C) i-CaH7 C 3 C H C-N 0 144-145 77.74 C 6 77. 54

ll i-CsH1 C 11 C013 C-N 0 179.5-180 77.19 7.97 77.25 7.89

- i i-C 71511 CAPE Cm: C-O C 0 84-85 75. 96 7. 70 3. 69 76.14 7.85 3.79

i-CaH1 C6115 0 H; ON 1 126127 79.73 7.57 8.09 79. 53 7.38 7.05

(I? i-CzH7 C 11 CaHg C- NHC-gHflIl)-.. 0 113.5-114 76.81 8.43

I 7 p1 i-CaH1 C5115 C 11 C-N O 0 157. 5458.5 74.25 7.67 74.24 7.60 u i-CaH1 C C CC' 0 120422.15 79.30 8.04 3.85 79. 47 8.07 4.06

Side-chain CzHs C C CN 0 177-180 CHOH OH- 1 B=other than amino; attached through carbon at omega position; R equals hydrogen (except last compound where one B. equals CH The 4-(omega-aminoalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinone compounds are generally prepared by heating a solution of the selected selected amine in a suitable reaction solvent, e.g., ethanol, a higher boiling alcohol such as butanol, a hydrocarbon solvent such as toluene, or the amine itself may be the solvent in some cases. A- reaction temperature from about room temperatureto about 120 C. is employed, preferably 100 to 120 C., and a reaction period of about eight to twenty-four hours is usually adequate. Higher reaction temperatures increase the speed of reaction but tend to increase the incidence of undesired side reactions, while temperatures below 100 C. frequently require undesirably lengthy reaction periods. Pressure to the extent generated in a sealed system is frequently employed to facilitate the reaction. The amine is usually employed in excess, at

per each molar equivalent of starting halogen compound. The resulting solution of the amine reaction product is concentrated, as in vacuo, and the amine product isolated, usually as the crystalline hydrohalide salt corresponding to the omega-halogen in the starting omega-haloalkyl compound. In most cases the hydrohalide salt, e.g., the hydrochloride, crystallizes as the hydrate. In cases where a crystalline salt is difiicult or impossible to obtain, the free basic amine itself may be distilled and crystallized from a solvent or solvent mixture or alternatively isolated as an oil by fractional distillation. Extraction of the reaction product with a suitable solvent, e.g., ether, benzene, toluene, or ethyl acetate, frequently assists in recovering all of the available product for isolation by crystallization or the like and concentrated acid, e.g., two Normal HCI, or anhydrous ketones, e.g., methyl ethyl ketone, are frequent- 7 least two molar equivalents of the amine being preferred ly of value as the solvent or medium from which crystallizationor recrystallization is effected. Where the free base is desired, this may be obtained conventionally by neutralizing the reaction product or a solution of the isolated salt with a base such as ammonia, ammonium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, or other suitable alkaline material, extracting the liberated base with a suitable solvent such as ethyl acetate or benzene, drying the extract and evaporating to dryness in vacuo or fractionally distilling, or in other conventional manner. Numerous acid addition as well as quaternary ammonium (onium) salts may be prepared from the free bases, either isolated or without isolation from the reaction product, as already indicated in the foregoing. The amine preparation is illustrated by the following specific examples.

Example 31.4-(Z-dimethylaminoethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-1- ethyl-Z-pyrrolidinone hydrochloride monohydrate A solution of forty g. (0.122 mole) of 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinone and eleven g. (0.244 mole) of dimethylamine in 250 ml. of absolute ethanol was heatedfor sixteen hours at 100 in a sealed system and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was dissolved in dilute hydrochloric acid and extracted with ethyl acetate. The acid extract was made basic with sodium hydroxide and again extracted with ethyl acetate. This ethyl acetate extract was concentrated in vacuo and the residue was dissolved in dry methyl ethyl ketone and acidified with dry hydrogen chloride, which caused precipitation of the product. Yield 32 g. (67%); Ml. 162166.

Drying at- 125 produced the anhydrous salt which, on standing at room temperature for one-half hour, reabsorbed its water of hydration.

4-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-1-isobutyl 2 pyrrolidinone hydrochloride, 1-benzyl-4-(Z-dimethylaminoethyl) 3,3 diphenyl 2-pyrrolidinone hydrochloride.

monohydrate, 3 ,3 -diphenyll-ethyl-4- (2-pyrrolidinoethyl 2-pyrrolidinone hydrochloride monohydrate, 3,3-diphenyl-.

1-isopropyl-4-(Z-methylaminoethyl) 2-pyrrolidinone hydrochloride, 3,3-diphenyl-1-isopr0pyl-4-[2-(4-methyl-1-piperazino)-ethyl]-2-pyrrolidinone dihydrochloride dihydrate, 3,3-dipheny1-1-isopropyl-4-[2 (4-phenyl-1-piperazino) -ethyl]-2-pyrrolidinone monohydrochloride dihydrate, 3,3-diphenyl-l-isopropyl-4-(2-morpholinoethyl)-2- pyrrolidinone hydrochloride monohydrate, 4-['2-(2,6-dimethylmorpholino) ethyl] 3,3 diphenyl-l-isopropyl-Z- pyrrolidinone maleate, and 3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-4-[2- (4 carbomethoxy-l-piperazino) -ethy1] 2-pyrrolidinone monohydrochloride dihydrate, were prepared in' the manner of Example 31 from 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-1- isobutyl-Z-pyrrolidinone and dimethylamine, 1-benzyl-4- (2-chloroethyl)-3,3-dipheny1-2-pyrrolidinone and dimethylamine, 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3,B-diphenyl-1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinone and pyrrolidine, 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-lisopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone and methylamine, 4-(2-chloroethyl)3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone and N- methylpiperazine, 4-(2-chloroethyl) -3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone and N-phenylpiperazine, 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-1isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone and morpholine, and 4-(2-chloroethyl) -3,3-diphenyl-l-isopropyl-2- pyrrolidinone and 2,6-dimethylmorpholine, and 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone and N- carbomethoxypiperazine, respectively.

The following are additional examples of the above method:

Example 32.-3,3-diphenyl-1-ethyl-4-(2-m0rplzolin0- ethyl)'-2-pyrr0lidin0ne hydrochloride monohydrate A solution of 25 g. (0.076 mole) of 4-(2-chloroethyl)- 3,3'-diphenyl-1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinone and 13.3 g. (0.153 mole) of morpholine in 500 ml. of absolute ethanol was heated at 95-120 for 21 hours in a closed system and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was dissolved in 300 ml. of two normal hydrochloric acid and extracted with 150 ml. of ethyl acetate. A solid crystallized (13 g.) during the extraction and was removed by filtration. MP. 217- 219. The acid extracts were made basic with sodium hy- 36-. droxide and extracted with ether, and the ether solution was concentrated in vacuo and the residue was suspended in six normal hydrochloric acid. Additional crystalline I concentrated in vacuo.

product formed and was recrystallized from twonormal hydrochloric acid. Yield ten g.; M.P. 217-219". Total yield 23 g. (70%).

Example 33.--4-(Z-dim-butlyaminoethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-1- ethyl-Z-pyrrolidinone A solution of 25 g. (0.076 mole) of 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3,.

3-diphenyl-l-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinone and 19.8 g. (0.153 mole) of di-n-butylarnine in 500 ml. of absolute ethanol was heated for 24 hours at -120 in a sealed system and The residue was partitioned between one normal hydrochloric acid and toluene and the oil and water layers were separated and made basic with sodium hydroxide and extracted with chloroform. The chloroform extract was concentrated in vacuo and the residue was distilled. Yield 14.7 g. (45%); B.P. 205- 210/0.05 mm.

3,3-diphenyl 1-ethyl-4-(2-piperidinoethyl)-2-pyrrolidinone and 3-cyclopentyl-4-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)-1-isopropyl-3-phenyl-2-pyrrolidinone were prepared in the manner of Example 33 from 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-2-pyrrolidinone and piperidine, and from 4-(2- chloroethyl)-3-cyclopentyl 1 isopropyl-3-phenyl-2-pyrrolidinone and dimethylamine respectively.

The amino substituent in the above compounds may be quaternized to form the quaternary ammonium (onium) salt as illustrated by the following example.

Example 34.-4- (Z-dimethylaminoethyl -3,3-diphenyl-1- isobutyl-Z-pyrrolidinone methobromz'de Ten grams (0.025 mole) of 4-(Z-dimethylaminoethyD- 3,3-dipheny1-1-isobutyl-Z-pyrrolidinone hydrochloride was partitioned between chloroform and dilute ammonium hydroxide. The chloroform layer was concentrated in vacuo, the residue was dissolved in dry methyl ethyl ketone, and the resulting solution was heated to reflux. A solution of 4.75 g. (0.05 mole) of methyl bromide in methyl ethyl ketone was added to the hot solution and, on cooling, 11.5 g. of crystalline material precipitated. M.P. 214-216". After recrystallization from methyl ethyl ketone, the melting point was 218219.

Among additional amines, which are preparable in accord with the foregoing procedures, are the following:

3-cyclopentyl-l-isopropyl 4 (2 morpholinoethyl)-3- phenyl-Z-pyrrolidinone maleate, 4-(diethylaminoethyl)-3, 3-dipheny1-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone fumarate, 4-(2-dimethylaminoethyl) 1,3-di-isopropyl-3-phenyl-2-pyrrolidinone hydrochloride, 3,3 diphenyl-4-(2 hexamethyleneiminoethyl)-lisopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone fumarate, and 4- [2-(3,5-dimethylmorpholino) ethyl] 3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone'maleate were prepared in the manner of Example 31 from 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3-cyclopentyl- 1-isopropyl-3-phenyl-2-pyrrolidinone and morpholine,v 4- (2-chloroethyl) 3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone and diethylamine, 4-(2-chloroethyl)-1,3-di-isopropyl-3 phenyl-Z-pyrrolidinone and dimethylamine, 4-(2-chloroethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone and hexamethyleneimine, and 4-(2-chloroethy1)-3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone and 3,5-dimethylmorpholine, re spectively.

The 4-(omega-aminoalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinone compounds wherein the amino substituent is primary are prepared by reacting the selected starting. 4-(omega-haloa1ky1)-2-pyrrolidinone and an excess of ammonia according to the classic Hofmann procedure, either under pressure or at a suificiently low temperature to provide the ammonia in liquid form, and subsequent treatment with alkali to minimize formation of secondary and tertiary amine salts. Alternatively, the primary amines can be formed by reduction of the corresponding nitrile, as with sodium and alcohol, or by the alkaline hydrolysis of the corresponding phthalimide according to the classic Gabriel synthesis.

A specific example of the preparation of a particular 4-(omega-primary aminoalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinone follows:

Example 35.4- (gamma -aminopropyl) -3,3-diphenyl-1- isopropyI-Z-pyrrolidinone fumarate 'A mixture of 25 g. (.075 mole) of 3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone-4-propionitrile and two teaspoon-- fuls of activated Raney nickel in 300 ml. of absolute ethanol was shaken in a hydrogen atmosphere for 54 hours duringrwhich time 3100 ml. ofhydrogen was absorbed.

The mixture was filtered. The filtrate was concentrated in vacuo and the residue was distilled at reduced pressure.

. tate was recrystallized from 200 ml. of water. Yield 6.5

g. (19% based on starting nitrile); M.P. 149152 C.

Analysis.Calcd for C H N O C, 69.00; H, 7.13; N, 6.18. Found: C, 69.08; H, 7.24; N, 6.19.

Other examples of the preparation of 4-(omega-morpholinoalkyl) compounds are as follows:

' Example 36.-4-[2-(3,5-dimethylm0rpholin0)-ethyl]-3,3-

diphenyl-I-isopropyZ-Z-pyrrolidinone maleate A solution of 30g. (0.088 mole) of 4-(2-chloroethyl)- 3,3-diphenyll-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone and 22 g. (0.176

mole) of 3,5-dimethylmorpholine in 400 ml. of 95% ethanol was-heated in a steel bomb for seventy-two hours at 140-150". Thereaction mixture was concentrated and the residue was partitioned between dilute hydrochloric acid and toluene. The aqueous layer together with an oil layer which formed was extracted with chloroform. The chloroform extract was washed with dilute sodium hydroxide and dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, then concentrated in vacuo. The residue was distilled at reduced pressure. B.P. 225-228/0.3 mm.

The base was converted to the maleate salt by treating an ethanol-ethyl ether solution with maleic acid. The resulting salt was recrystallized from an ethanol-ethyl ether mixture. Yield, 18 grams (49%); M.P. 149-150".

Analysis.Calcd for C H N O C, 69.38; H, 7.51; N, 5.22. Found: C,-69.40; H, 7.46; N, 5.24.

The fumarate salt was prepared inthe same manner as r the maleate salt. MP. ZOO-203.

" (0.176 mole) of 2,6-dimethylmorpholine in 300 ml. of absolute ethanol was heated in a steel bomb for sixteen hours at 120-140. The solution was concentrated and the residue was dissolved in 200 ml. of chloroform and the resulting solution was washed with One normal hydrochloric acid and dilute sodium hydroxide, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was distilled at reduced pressure. Yield, 26 g.; B.P. 210215/0.05 mm. The base was converted to the maleate salt by treating an absolute ethanol solution with maleic acid and precipitating the resulting salt with dry ethyl ether. The salt was recrystallized from an ethanol-ether mixture. Yield, 28 g. (60%); M.P. 177- 1785 Analysis.Calcd for C H N O C, 69.38; H, 7.51; N, 5.22. Found: C, 69.29; H, 7.62; N, 5.22.

In the manner of the preceding discussion and particularly in accord with Examples 31 through 35, starting with the appropriate nitrile and reducing the same either catalytically or with sodium and alcohol, or starting with the corresponding 4-(omega-haloalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinone and the selected amine, or starting with the appropriate pri- 38 mary or secondary amine and the selected alkyl halide, the following 4-(omega-aminoalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones are produced:

4- B-diethylaminoethyl) -3-allyl-3-phenyl-1-is0propyl-2- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chloroethyl compound and diethylarnine 4- B-dimethylaminoethyl -3,3 -dicyclohexyl-1-allyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4- [B- (N -methylpiperazino -ethyl] -3 ,3 -dimethy11-phenyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and N-methylpiperazine 4- ,B-pip eridinoethyl) -3 -benzyl-3-phenyll-isopropyl-Z- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and piperidine 4- [i-pyrrolidinoethyl) -3-phenyl-3-( 1-isopropyl-3-pyrrolidyl)-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-chloroethyl compound and pyrrolidine v 4- (2,6-dimethylpiperidino ethyl] -3 -phenyl-3-(2- or S-thienyl)-1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and 2,6-dimethylpiperidine 4-[5- 3'-methylpiperidino)-ethyl]-3-phenyl-3-(2- or 3- thenyl)-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,B-chloroethyl compound and 3-methylpiperidine 4- ,B-dimethylaminoethyl) -3-phenyl-3 p-methoxyphenyl)-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4- j8-dimethylaminoethyl) -3-phenyl3 (m-chlorophenyl) l-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4- fi-dimethylaminoethyl) -3 -phenyl-3 (o-methylphenyl) 1-isopropyl2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,B-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4- (fi-dimethylaminoethyl) -3 -methyl-3 -cyclopentyll-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4-(B-dimethylaminopropyl)-3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-2 pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chloropropyl compound and dimethylamine 4-( 3-pyrrolidinopropyl)-3,3-diphenyl-l-isopropyl-Z- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi chloropropyl compound and pyrrolidine 4- (,B-dimethylarninoethyl) -4-methyl3,3-diphenyll-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4- fl-dimethylaminoethyl) -5 -methyl3 ,3-diphenyl1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4-(y-aminopropyl)-3-phenyl-3-(2-piperidyl)-l-methyl- Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-cyanoethyl compound by catalytic reduction 4- (y-dimethylaminopropyl) -3-phenyl-3- [4'- (N-methylpiperidyl)1-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding 'y-bromopropyl compound and dimethylamine 4- ,B-methylaminoethyl) -3 ,3 -diphenyll-methyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-aminoethyl compound and methyl chloride 4-.- (/3-methylethylaminoethyl) -3 ,3-diphenyl-1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-me'thylaminoethyl compound and ethyl chloride 4-('y-dimethylamino-2'-propyl)-3,3-diphenyl-l-isopropyl- 2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding 'y-chloro-2- propyl compound and dimethylamine 4-(fi-methylaminoethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-l-isobutyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chloroethyl compound and methylarnine 4- B-dimethylarninoethyl) -3 3 -dipheny1- l -cyclohexyl-2- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4- (p-dimethylaminoethyl) -3,3-diphenyll-benzyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4- S-dimethylaminoethyl) -3-phenyi-3- (2-pyridyl) -1- benzyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4-(,B-diallylaminoethyl)-3-phenyl-3-(Z-pyridyD-l-isobuty1-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ii-chloroethyl compound and diallylamine 4-(B-hydroxyethylaminoethyl)-3-phenyl-3-(2-pyridyl)- '1-cyclohexyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and ethanolamine 4- [B-bis- (/8'-hydroxyethylamino -ethyl] -3-phenyl-3- 2- pyridyl)-1-n-butyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and diethanolamiue 4- (/3-allylaminoethy1) -3 -phenyl-3 -(2-pyridyl)-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,B-chloroethyl compound and allylamine 4-(,8-phenylaminoethyl)-3-pheny1-3-(2-pyridyl)-1- ethyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and aniline 4- B-dipropylaminoethyl) -3-phenyl-3 (2-pyridyl) l-methyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-chloroethyl compound and dipropylamine 4- 8- (N-methylphenylamino -ethyl] -3 (p-methoxyphenyl) -3- (2-pyridyl) -1-methyl-2-pyrro1idinone from the corresponding ,G-chloroethyl compound and N-methylaniline 4-(j3-dimethylaminoethyl) -3- (p-methoxyphenyl) -3- (2-pyridyl)-1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chloroethyl compound and dimethylarnine 4- fi-dimethylaminoethyl) -3 (p-methoxyphenyl -3 (Z-pyridyl)-1-isopropy1-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4- B-methylaminoethyl -3 -isopropyl-3-phenyll-ethyl- 2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and methylamine 4- (fi-dimethylaminoethyl) -1 ,I,-di-isopropyl-3- phenyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4-(/S-dimethylaminoethyl)-3-methyl-3-phenyl-1- isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4-(fi-benzylaminoethyl)-3-cyclopenty1-3-phenyl-1- isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-chloroethyl compound and benzylamine 4- fl-dimethylaminoethyl -3 -cyclohexyl-3 -phenyl- 1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chloroethyl compound and dimethylamine 4- (A-dimethylamino-2'-butyl -3 ,3-dipheny1-1-isopropyl- 2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding chloro compound and dimethylamine 4-(y-dimethylaminobuty1) -3, 3 -diphenyl-1-isopropy1- 2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding chloro compound and dimethylamine 4-(' sdirnethylamino-B-methylpropyl)-3,3-diphenyl- 1-isopropyl-2-pyrro1idinone from the corresponding chloro compound and dimethylamine bis(haloethyl)ether or bis(haloethyl)thioether, the following 4-(omega-morpholinoalkyl)-2-pyrrolidinones are prepared:

4- 3- (2'-methy1morpholino -ethyl] -3-allyl-3-phenyl- 1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-chloroethyl compound and 2-methylmorpholine 4- ,B- ('2,6'-dimethylmorpholino -ethyl] -3 ,B-dicyclohexyl-l-allyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,B-chloroethyl compound and 2,6-dimethylmorpholine 4- [fl- (2-methoxymorpholino -ethyl] -3,3-dimethyll-phenyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding chloroethyl compound and Z-methoxymorpholine 4- fi-morpholinoethyl) -3-benzyl-3 -phenyll-isopropyl- Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and morpholine V 4- fi-morpholinoethyl -3-pheny1-3- 1-isopropyl-3- pyrrolidyl)-1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 4-(B-nrorpholinoethyl)-3-phenyl-3-(2- or 3-thienyl)- 1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone. from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 4-(l3-morpholinoethy1)-3-phenyl-3-(2- or 3-theny1-)- 1-isopropyl2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 4-(B-morpholinoethy1) -3-phenyl-3- (p-methoxyphenyl 1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 4- (IS-morpholinoethyl -3-phenyl-3- (m-chlorophenyl) 1-isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 4-(B-morpholinoethyl)-3-phenyl3-(o-methylphenyl)- 1-isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding S-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 4- (fl-morpholinoethyl) -3 -methyl-3-cyclop entyl- 1 isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,B-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 4- (ii-morpholinopropyl -3,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl-2- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fl-chloropropyl compound and morpholine 4- (fi-thiornorpholinopropyl) -3 ,3-diphenyl-1-isopropyl- 2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chloropropyl compound and thiomorpholine 4-(fi-morpholinoethyl)-4-methyl-3,3-diphenyl-1- isopropyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,S-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 4- (fi-morpholinoethyl -5-methy1-3 ,3-diphenyl-1- isopropyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-iodoethyl compound and morpholine 4-[gamma-(2', '-dimethylmorpholino)-propyl]-3- phenyl-3 (2-piperidyl 1 -methy1-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding -chloropropyl compound and 2,6-dimethy1morpholine 4- gamma- 3 ,5 '-dimethylmorpholino) -propyl] -3- pheny1-3- [4'- (N-methylpiperidyl) ]-1-isopropyl- 2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding 'y-chloropropyl compound and -3,5-dimethylmorpholine 4- (B-morpholinoethyl) :3 ,3 -diphenyl-1-methy1-2- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding p-aminoethyl compound and bis-(fl-chloroethynether 4- fl-thiomorpholinoethyl) -3,3-diphenyl-1-ethyl-2- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,B-aminoethyl compound and bis-(fi-chloroethyDthioether 4- ('y-rnorpholinot-Z-propyl -3 ,3 'dipheny1- l-isopropyl- 2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding 'y-chloro-2- propyl compound and morpholine 4- B-morpholinoethyl -3 ,3 -diphenyl- 1-isobuty1-2- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-bromoethyl compound and morpholine 4-(B-morpholinoethy1) -3 ,3 -dipheny1-1-cyclohexyl- 2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,B-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 4- ,G-morpholinoethyl) -3 3 -diphenyl-1-benzyl-2- pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 4- fl-morpholinoethyl) -3-phenyl-3- (2-pyridy1 1- benzyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding B-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 4- (fi-rnorpholinoethyl) -3-phenyl-3-(2-pyridy1) -lv isobutyl-2-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding fi-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 4- (B-morpholinoethyl) -3 -phenyl-3- (2-pyridyl -1- cyclohexyl-Z-pyrrolidinone from the corresponding ,B-chloroethyl compound and morpholine 

7. A COMPOUND SELECTED FROM THE GROUP CONSISTING OF 4-(OMEGA-MORPHOLINO-ALKYL)-2-PYRROLIDINONES AND -2-THIONPYRROLIDINONES OF THE FORMULA:
 18. A 1-LOWER-ALKYL-3,3-DIPHENYL-4-(B-THIOMORPHOLINO-ETHYL)-2-PYRROLIDONE PHARMACOLOGICALLY ACCEPTABLE ACID ADDITION SALT. 